Dentistry Today — October 2026

Inside this issue

Excerpts from the issue. Open the digital edition to read any page in full.

1. Page 6

   D entistry has never had more technology, materials, and treatment options available than it does today. With all these tools at our disposal, however, it can sometimes be tempting to do more simply because we can. The real artistry—and often the greater clinical challenge—is knowing when less will produce the better result. That philosophy is beautifully demonstrated in our cover story by Dr. Adamo Notarantonio, recognized as one of the country’s leading cosmetic dentists and a past president of the prestigious American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. What impressed me most about the case presented in this issue, however, was not…

2. Page 8

   MONTH 2026 8 M ost dentists have a good sense of what’s happening in their practice. They feel like the phones are being answered, that new patients are coming in, and that the schedule is full enough. But feeling and knowing are different things. After analyzing more than 150,000 inbound calls across hundreds of dental practices, I can tell you that the gap between what practice owners believe is happening and what the data actually shows may be the single biggest blind spot in dentistry. The Front Door Problem Nobody Measured Every dental practice has a physical front door, but…

3. Page 10

   VIEWPOINT sation across hundreds of practices, patterns emerge that no single practice could ever see on its own. Demand Intelligence: Reading What Your Phones are Telling You We now classify every interaction by intent. Was it a new patient trying to book? An existing patient confirming? Someone requesting a records transfer to another practice? A billing question, or a cancellation? Each one tells you something different about the health of the practice. New patient call volume tells you whether demand is strong enough to grow, or barely enough to hold steady. The gap between callers who wanted to book and…

4. Page 12

   QUICK TECHNIQUE SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION Sarah Balaster, DMD A s clinicians, we are trained to recognize findings that patients often cannot see for themselves, from plaque and biofilm accumulation to inflammation, bone loss, demineral - ization, and disease progression. Help - ing patients understand those findings has always been essential because people are far more likely to change behavior when they can visualize the problem. For generations, some of our most effective patient education tools have shared a common purpose: making the invisible visible. Artificial intelligence is helping bridge that gap. AI-assisted platforms such as Overjet translate radiographic findings into…

5. Page 14

   QUICK TECHNIQUE SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION Ed, CDIPC E very day in dentistry, we follow protocols we know protect our patients and teams: handwashing, sterilization, disinfection. Yet the science behind them often goes untold. As an infection prevention educator, I’ve found that understanding why makes compliance easier. Dental vacuum line maintenance is a perfect example. What Accumulates in a Vacuum Line? A well-functioning evacuation system improves visibility, reduces aerosols and spatter, and supports effi - cient care. Yet few clinicians consider what remains inside the lines afterward, where evacuation systems daily collect blood, saliva, tissue fragments, prophy paste, impression materials, composite…

6. Page 16

   SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION Q & A ntinues to evolve, yet many patients who need comprehensive treatment still leave practices without receiving fixed care. Dentistry Today spoke with Dale Spadafora, DMD, chief clinical officer of Stabili- Teeth, about why he believes full-arch dentistry has reached an inflection point and why the next evolu - tion may be about expanding, rather than replacing, existing treatment modalities. Q: What do you see as the biggest opportunity in full-arch dentistry today? Dale Spadafora (DS): We have excellent full-arch solutions. I perform them and believe in them. But I’ve also watched too many patients who…

7. Page 18

   In First Im press ions, George Freedman, DDS, gives readers a brief summary of products that have re cent ly been in troduced to den tistry, based on his clinical experience. The Polydentia Unica Master Kit, distributed by Directa USA, includes Unica Anterior and Unica Proximal matrices in 2 different sizes. Both are ultra-thin (0.03 mm) stainless-steel matrices designed for anterior restorations. The Unica Anterior matrices feature a contoured U-shape design to adapt to different anterior tooth morphologies, while the Unica Proximal matrices follow the natural labial, palatal, and proximal contours of upper and lower anterior teeth. What stood out…

8. Page 20

   . 1 TheraBreath Dentist-Formulated Toothpaste Targets Gum Health Formulated with advanced stabilized stannous fluoride, TheraBreath Healthy Gums Tooth - paste bridges the gap between clinical biofilm suppression and daily patient care, actively reversing gingivitis and preventing plaque regrowth. For more information, visit hygienesquad.com/therabreath . Additionally, make sure to watch the Speaking of Dentistry podcast interview with Shannon Nanne, RDH—dental hygien - ist, educator, author, and key opinion leader. In her interview with Dentistry Today ’s Senior Managing Editor Stan Goff, Nanne discusses the connection between saliva and oral disease, how saliva affects caries risk and prevention, and products available today…

9. Page 22

   . 1 4th ANNUAL EDITORS’ CHOICE AWARDS RECOGNIZING TODAY’S MOST INNOVATIVE DENTAL PRODUCTS Pulpdent Bioactive Composite Releases and Recharges Fluoride, Calcium, and Phosphate ACTIVA BioACTIVE-Restorative is a highly aesthetic, bioactive composite that delivers all the advantages of glass ionomers in a strong, resilient resin matrix that will not chip or crumble. It releases and recharges fluoride, calcium, and phosphate and responds to pH cycles in the oral environment. Its ionic activity helps protect against microleakage/secondary caries by supporting natural apatite formation and stabilizing the hybrid layer. Its ionic activity also supports biofilm modulation and natural remineralization. ACTIVA is more bioactive…

10. Page 24

    24 . 1 4th ANNUAL EDITORS’ CHOICE AWARDS RECOGNIZING TODAY’S MOST INNOVATIVE DENTAL PRODUCTS Shofu Dental Next-Generation Glass Ionomer Restorative Loaded With Benefits Shofu’s FX-LC is a next-generation, light-cure, resin-reinforced glass ionomer restorative designed to deliver high strength, efficient 4-mm bulk fill, and excellent value for today’s restorative practice. Powered by New Generation Acrylamide (NGA) monomer chemistry, FX-LC provides compressive strength that exceeds leading competitors while maintaining the signature benefits of glass ionomer technology: high fluoride release, self-adhesion, and moisture tolerance. This combination makes FX-LC ideal for high-caries-risk patients, subgingival areas, and challenging moisture control situ - ations. It features…

11. Page 26

    26 . 1 4th ANNUAL EDITORS’ CHOICE AWARDS RECOGNIZING TODAY’S MOST INNOVATIVE DENTAL PRODUCTS Ritter Dental USA Complete Operatory Bundle Features Turnkey Integration Equipping a practice often requires sourcing multiple vendors and coordinating compatibility. The Ritter Complete Operatory Bundle eliminates this by delivering a clinically ready, multi-unit operatory solution engineered as an integrated system. Each Vanguard dental unit includes an electric lift rated for 400 lbs, 30° swivel positioning, right/left conversion, overhead LED lighting, and dedicated doctor/assistant delivery. A 4HP compressor powers 5 operatories, while the Metasys Excom Hybrid suction supports up to 6. Imaging is fully included: Mobile X…

12. Page 28

    28 . 1 4th ANNUAL EDITORS’ CHOICE AWARDS RECOGNIZING TODAY’S MOST INNOVATIVE DENTAL PRODUCTS Glidewell Zirconia Line Provides Uncompromising Results Across All Situations Glidewell’s BruxZir portfolio continues to evolve, shifting from materials to technology-driven solutions designed to eliminate tradeoffs in modern dentistry. Today, clinicians no longer have to choose between strength and aesthetics, speed and realism, or ease and longevity. Instead, by choosing BruxZir, clinicians gain uncompromising results across every clinical situation. With the Next-Day BruxZir Service, clinicians can deliver zirconia crowns in just 21 hours—treating patients more quickly, without added equipment costs or workflow changes. The Next-Day Service is…

13. Page 30

    30 . 1 4th ANNUAL EDITORS’ CHOICE AWARDS RECOGNIZING TODAY’S MOST INNOVATIVE DENTAL PRODUCTS Aidite Technology Scan-to-Smile Workflow for Efficient, Predictable Treatment Immediate full-arch implant treatment requires precision at every stage, from capturing the edentulous arch to delivering the provisional and, ultimately, the definitive restoration. Aidite’s PSPI Edentulous Immediate Implant Solution brings these stages together in one integrated digital workflow. The process begins with the Aidite Rapid 5 intraoral scanner, engineered to capture complex full-arch and edentulous implant cases with accurate data matching and alignment. Combined with TrueFit Pro5, clinicians can digitally capture gingival anatomy, the occlusal relationship, and implant…

14. Page 32

    . 1 4th ANNUAL EDITORS’ CHOICE AWARDS RECOGNIZING TODAY’S MOST INNOVATIVE DENTAL PRODUCTS Dandy Digital Staining Brings Aesthetics and Strength A crown should look like a tooth, not just resemble one from a distance. Monolithic zirconia has long been valued for its strength and economics, but it has traditionally trailed layered or lithium disilicate restorations in replicating the subtle depth and translucency of natural teeth. Polychromatic Shade, a proprietary digital staining process, is engineered to close that gap. Applied to a monolithic zirconia crown, it embeds color dimensionally into the restoration, producing the kind of shade, depth, translucency, and chroma…

15. Page 34

    34 . 1 4th ANNUAL EDITORS’ CHOICE AWARDS RECOGNIZING TODAY’S MOST INNOVATIVE DENTAL PRODUCTS VOCO Universal Composite Delivers Great Strength, Aesthetics, and Simplified Workflows GrandioSO 4U represents a new class of universal composite, designed to simplify workflows while delivering exceptional aesthetics and strength. As a 4-in-1 composite system, GrandioSO 4U simplifies the restorative workflow without sacrificing aesthetic results in both the anterior and posterior. With a record breaking 91% fill rate, a 4-mm depth of cure in just 10 seconds, and its innovative Visual Transformation Technology (VTT) that allows the material transition from highly translucent (pre-cure) to natural opacity (post-cure)…

16. Page 36

    36 . 1 4th ANNUAL EDITORS’ CHOICE AWARDS RECOGNIZING TODAY’S MOST INNOVATIVE DENTAL PRODUCTS BISCO Universal Composite Formulated to Meet Modern Restorative Demands Quantium is a light-cured, radiopaque universal composite designed for both single-shade use and multi-shade layering. Engineered for modern restorative demands, Quantium delivers exceptional handling, strength, and placement control for predictable anterior and posterior results. Its advanced filler technology ensures excellent polishability and long-term gloss reten - tion, helping clinicians consistently achieve natural, lifelike restorations. A smooth, non-sticky consistency allows for precise sculpting and efficient placement, reducing chair time without sacrificing quality. With high wear resistance and durability,…

17. Page 38

    38 . 1 4th ANNUAL EDITORS’ CHOICE AWARDS RECOGNIZING TODAY’S MOST INNOVATIVE DENTAL PRODUCTS Kuraray Noritake Dental Pre-Sintered Zirconia Blocks Save Time, Simplify Workflows, and Deliver Strength and Aesthetics KATANA Zirconia ONE For IMPLANT is a pre-sintered zirconia block, developed specifically for CEREC systems that gives clinicians the freedom to create either hybrid abutment crowns or hybrid abut - ments from a single block—saving time, simplifying workflows, and delivering strong, natural-looking results. It is built on Kuraray Noritake’s multi-layer technology: 4 layers of zirconia in carefully gradu - ated shades that mimic the natural gradation of tooth structure. This product…

18. Page 40

    40 . 1 4th ANNUAL EDITORS’ CHOICE AWARDS RECOGNIZING TODAY’S MOST INNOVATIVE DENTAL PRODUCTS Philips System Helps Patients Achieve Whiter Smiles in as Little as Two Weeks From the Comfort of Home Philips Zoom! Delivered offers patients professional whitening solutions delivered straight to their home. For dental professionals, it makes whitening as easy as taking an intraoral scan, sending to the Philips lab, and done! Patients can enjoy an elevated treatment plan for their unique needs and choose one of 2 whitening gels: DayWhite or NiteWhite. Based on a recent clinical study, Philips gel formulas can whiten teeth up to…

19. Page 42

    . 1 4th ANNUAL EDITORS’ CHOICE AWARDS RECOGNIZING TODAY’S MOST INNOVATIVE DENTAL PRODUCTS . 1 42 4th ANNUAL EDITORS’ CHOICE AWARDS RECOGNIZING TODAY’S MOST INNOVATIVE DENTAL PRODUCTS Great Lakes Dental Technologies Full Coverage Splint is Lightweight, Flexible, and Strong The Nylon Flat Plane Splint is a full coverage splint with an even, flat occlusal surface providing smooth contacts for the opposing arch. Also known as a hard nightguard, Great Lakes combined in-depth technical experience with 3D software, the latest printing technology, and biocompatible nylon material to deliver an advanced appliance. Leveraging the details and accuracy of digital 3D models and…

20. Page 44

    44 . 1 4th ANNUAL EDITORS’ CHOICE AWARDS RECOGNIZING TODAY’S MOST INNOVATIVE DENTAL PRODUCTS Alien Milling Technologies Zirconia Collection Offers Versatile Range of High-Performance Zirconia The Alien Zirconia Collection delivers a versatile range of high-performance zirconia engineered for today’s demanding restorative workflows. Designed for dental laboratories seeking strength, aesthetics, consistency, and value, the collection offers dependable options for highly aesthetic anterior restorations, posterior crowns, bridges, and full-arch cases. The collection includes Alien Multi-Layer 2.0, featuring a natural multilayer shade transition, 46% translucency, and flexural strength up to 1,025 MPa; Alien HT, offering approximately 1,200 MPa strength for demanding indications; Alien…

21. Page 46

    46 . 1 4th ANNUAL EDITORS’ CHOICE AWARDS RECOGNIZING TODAY’S MOST INNOVATIVE DENTAL PRODUCTS SHINING 3D Dental Scanner’s Optimized Capabilities Provide Versatile Solution for Multiple Applications The Aoralscan Elite is an advanced intraoral scanner designed to support efficient, accurate digital workflows across a wide range of clinical applications. Combining high-performance scanning technology with intelligent software, the Aoralscan Elite delivers a streamlined scanning experience from initial capture through digital treatment planning and restoration workflows. Designed with speed and versatility in mind, it provides detailed digital impressions while helping clinicians efficiently capture challenging areas of the oral environment. Its optimized scanning capabilities…

22. Page 49

    49 4th ANNUAL EDITORS’ CHOICE AWARDS RECOGNIZING TODAY’S MOST INNOVATIVE DENTAL PRODUCTS NSK’s VarioSurg 4 Ultrasonic Bone Surgery System incorporates innovative high-power ultrasonic technology with a diverse lineup of tips for various procedures. It allows for swift and intricate bone removal and shaping, minimizing damage to surrounding soft tissue and reduces invasiveness compared to conventional bone and micro saws. With new advantages like wireless foot control integration, compatibility with Surgic Pro2, and a refined, stylish design, the VarioSurg 4 is set to exceed clinicians’ expectations with its intuitive design and advanced functionality. . www.nskdental.com Combining subgingival and supragingival powder the…

23. Page 50

    50 . 1 4th ANNUAL EDITORS’ CHOICE AWARDS RECOGNIZING TODAY’S MOST INNOVATIVE DENTAL PRODUCTS Tokuyama Dental America Composite System Eliminates Shade Selection and Reduces Inventory OMNICHROMA is a one-shade universal composite that matches every patient’s tooth, from A1 to D4. Available in packable, flowable, and bulk-fill forms, OMNICHROMA products do not contain dyes or pigments and depend solely on structural color—a natural phenomenon—to shade-match. OMNICHROMA’s 260-nanometer spherical fillers have the precise size and shape necessary to generate the red-to-yellow color range of human teeth and naturally shade-match as ambient light reflects off the surrounding dentition and passes through the composite.…

24. Page 52

    52 . 1 4th ANNUAL EDITORS’ CHOICE AWARDS RECOGNIZING TODAY’S MOST INNOVATIVE DENTAL PRODUCTS BTL Aesthetics Device Delivers TMJ Relief for Patients EMFACE by BTL introduces a noninvasive approach to supporting patients with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction through synchronized radiofrequency (RF) and high-intensity facial electrical stimulation (HIFES). By targeting key facial muscle groups involved in jaw positioning, EMFACE helps relax overactive muscles while simultaneously strengthening and toning underactive muscles, promoting improved balance and more optimal jaw function. This “Functional TMJ” approach provides dental professionals with an adjunctive, hands-free solution that can complement existing therapies without downtime. Beyond function, EMFACE also…

25. Page 53

    53 4th ANNUAL EDITORS’ CHOICE AWARDS RECOGNIZING TODAY’S MOST INNOVATIVE DENTAL PRODUCTS . Full-arch scans in 30 seconds, quadrants in 15. AI Scan Assist guides every capture, so your whole team scans confidently from day one. Less chair time, more patients. n Precision you can see. ±12- μ accuracy and true-color scans capture soft tissue cleanly, for well-fitting restora - tions and fewer remakes across crowns, bridges, clear aligners, and dentures. n The Best Value in Dentistry. Everything included: scanner, a premium 15-in Dell touchscreen laptop, training, warranty, and USA-based support. Special pricing, now available for Dentistry Today readers. THREE…

26. Page 54

    54 4th ANNUAL EDITORS’ CHOICE AWARDS RECOGNIZING TODAY’S MOST INNOVATIVE DENTAL PRODUCTS Zyris Adanced Isolation System Enables Better Dentistry The Isolite System is your all-in-one solution for efficient dentistry. From visibility to mois - ture control and patient compliance, every feature is designed to help you do better dentistry, in less time. In fact, practices using Isolite are reducing procedure times by up to 50%. Isolite provides continuous, hands-free isolation and suction of both quad - rants in the operative field, this means you can focus entirely on the procedure at hand, reducing fatigue and improving precision. Dental professionals have…

27. Page 55

    55 4th ANNUAL EDITORS’ CHOICE AWARDS RECOGNIZING TODAY’S MOST INNOVATIVE DENTAL PRODUCTS We won’t save you 8 minutes… We’ll save you 80 Practices using Isolite ® are reducing procedure times by up to 48% * Scan to Reclaim Your Day www.zyris.com ©2025 Zyris, Inc. All rights reserved. *Research data on file. Visit Zyris.com to learn more. Isolite helps you reclaim valuable minutes in every procedure. You decide whether that means adding a patient, strengthening relationships, or giving yourself a few quiet moments in the day. MK-0108-982 r Platforms Offer Clinical Capabilities and Support Precise, Efficient Treatment DEKA Dental Lasers combines…

28. Page 56

    56 . 1 4th ANNUAL EDITORS’ CHOICE AWARDS RECOGNIZING TODAY’S MOST INNOVATIVE DENTAL PRODUCTS DentalJect Pre-injection Anesthetic Spray Transforms Injections and Increases Efficiency Oryx Clinically Rooted, Cloud-Based, and AI-Powered DPMS Platform Helps Practices of All Sizes Founded in 2016, Oryx Dental is one of dentistry’s leading clinically rooted, cloud-based, and AI-powered dental practice management software (DPMS) platforms. Used by 15,000-plus clinicians at startups, single and multi-location practices, and DSOs, Oryx is designed with a patient-first mindset and deep clinical intelligence. With Oryx, you can: • Deliver Clinical Excellence: AI-assisted clinical workflows and features—such as AI Voice Perio Charting and integrations…

29. Page 58

    58 . 1 4th ANNUAL EDITORS’ CHOICE AWARDS RECOGNIZING TODAY’S MOST INNOVATIVE DENTAL PRODUCTS Dentsply Sirona Intraoral Scanning Solution Primescan 2 is the first cloud-native intraoral scanning solution, delivering excellent flexibility and versatility. Fully wireless, it can scan on any internet-connected mobile or desktop device—without needing a dedicated computer. Built on proven technology, Primescan 2 offers excellent scan accuracy and supports 2 scan types: status scans for complete digital health records and treatment scans for specific applications. A paid DS Core subscription is required to operate Primescan 2. The wireless intraoral scanner is simple and versatile, easily integrating into the…

30. Page 59

    59 4th ANNUAL EDITORS’ CHOICE AWARDS RECOGNIZING TODAY’S MOST INNOVATIVE DENTAL PRODUCTS Drill-Free, Early-Stage Caries Treatment in as Little as 3 Minutes. C u r o d o n t ® from vVARDIS Become a Curodontist TM Visit vVARDIS.com Engineered In Switzerland ©2026 vVARDIS, Inc. All rights reserved Curodont® . A Non-invasive Restorative Treatment.  No drilling or needle needed  Helps preserve natural tooth structure  ˁˢ˔˥˧˜Ѓ˖˜˔˟Ѓ˟˟˜ˡ˚ˠ˔˧˘˥˜˔˟˦ʟˡˢˡʠ˦˧˔˜ˡ˜ˡ˚ʟ˧˔˦˧˘˟˘˦˦  One-time, fast & easy application*  Suitable for children and adults**  Can be applied by trained clinicians including hygienists***  >90% success rate proven in multiple peer-reviewed publications 1 *…

31. Page 60

    60 . 1 4th ANNUAL EDITORS’ CHOICE AWARDS RECOGNIZING TODAY’S MOST INNOVATIVE DENTAL PRODUCTS Premier Dental Composite Combines Aesthetic Simplicity With BioArmor Antimicrobial Nanotechnology MultiMatch Flow Chameleon Antimicrobial Composite with BioArmor is the next evolution in flowable composite engineered to deliver active protection, adaptability, and reliable performance. The new composite represents a significant advancement in restorative dentistry. Today’s clinicians demand materials that go beyond aesthetics and function—they want solutions that actively support long-term oral health in the face of biofilm, acid exposure, and demineralization. MultiMatch Flow meets this need by com - bining aesthetic simplicity with BioArmor, a breakthrough antimicrobial…

32. Page 62

    62 . 1 4th ANNUAL EDITORS’ CHOICE AWARDS RECOGNIZING TODAY’S MOST INNOVATIVE DENTAL PRODUCTS Cleartooth Digital X-Ray Turn-Key Imaging System Simplifies Everyday Workflows Cleartooth offers the most robust and dependable, turn-key 2D imaging system, supporting accurate decision-making in modern dentistry. Cleartooth Digital X-Ray optimizes every step of the radiographic process, from acquisition to review, removing inefficiencies that interrupt patient care. It simplifies everyday dental workflows with minimal clicks, improving speed and efficiency during exams and keeping all images properly mounted, ori - ented, and organized. Reliability is critical in a busy clinical environment. Using its own purpose-built networked data platform,…

33. Page 63

    63 4th ANNUAL EDITORS’ CHOICE AWARDS RECOGNIZING TODAY’S MOST INNOVATIVE DENTAL PRODUCTS One lightweight device. Warming and delivery, combined. Heat. Dispense. Done. W H A T W A R M I N G D E L I V E R S Smoother flow Lower viscosity from increased monomer mobility Better adaptation Improved contact with cavity walls and margins Fewer voids Reduced porosity in the placed restoration Stronger restorations Increased polymerization T H E R E S U LT S ,PSURYHGH೤LFLHQF\ SUHGLFWDEOHRXWFRPHV * Learn more at addent.com/compex *Research references at addent.com | ISO 13485 CERTIFIED ob ility m argins o ra…

34. Page 64

    64 . 1 4th ANNUAL EDITORS’ CHOICE AWARDS RECOGNIZING TODAY’S MOST INNOVATIVE DENTAL PRODUCTS Ultradent Products Whitening Products Shine in Office and at Home to Brighten Patient Smiles For more than 35 years, Opalescence whitening has set the standard as the global leader in professional teeth whitening with over 150 million smiles brightened. Opalescence whitening products are designed by dentists and built around the patient experience. With a variety of treatment options, you and your patients can choose the Opalescence whitening products that best fit their lifestyle. Take-home options like customizable gels and ready-towear, prefilled trays allow them to whiten…

35. Page 66

    66 . 1 Microcopy Diamond Burs’ Spiral Design Combines Increased Cutting Efficiency With Channels That Help Move Debris Away NeoDiamond NeoSpiral is designed to deliver fast, efficient cutting while helping clinicians maintain a cleaner, more consistent preparation. Its unique spiral design sets it apart from traditional finish - ing diamonds by combining increased cutting efficiency with channels engineered to help move debris away from the cutting surface. Testing comparing NeoSpiral burs with their nonspiral finishing counterparts demonstrated sig - nificantly greater cutting efficiency, supporting both rapid bulk reduction and decreased cutting time. The spiral channels are designed to help direct…

36. Page 69

    Yankee Dental Congress 2027 will take place from January 28, 2027, through January 30, 2027, at the Thomas M. Menino Convention & Exhibition Center in Boston. From innovative clinical techniques and over 75 hands-on courses to practice management, technology, and the growing connection between oral and overall health, Yankee offers education for every member of the dental team. Explore new products and solutions on the exhibit floor, discover fresh perspectives from leading educators, and connect with colleagues from the East Coast and beyond. Then, experience the energy that makes Yankee more than a dental meeting—with special events, networking opportunities, and…

37. Page 70

    Industry News AACD Appoints Krista Paternostro Bower as New Executive Director The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) has appointed Krista Paternostro Bower, MPA, CAE, as its brand new executive director. She began the role back on August 19, bringing more than 30 years of association and nonprofit leadership experience. A certified association executive since 2008, Paternostro Bower has led national membership organizations, certification boards, and professional soci - eties, with expertise in strategic planning, membership engagement, governance, education, credentialing, and financial sustainability. Most recently, she served as chief executive officer and executive director of the Society of Dermatology Physician…

38. Page 71

    NEWS & TRENDS 71 Researchers at the University of Texas at Dallas have developed a new processing method that could help make same-day, 3D-printed zirconia dental restorations a practical option for dental practices. The technology dramatically reduces the time required to process zirconia after printing, potentially allowing permanent crowns and other restorations to be produced chairside within hours. Zirconia has become widely used for permanent dental restorations because of its strength, durability, and wear resistance. While the 3D printing process has become increasingly popular for customized restorations, same-day 3D-printed options have generally relied on ceramic resins that do not offer…

39. Page 72

    W ith the rise of social media, dentistry has never been more visible. Platforms like Instagram and Facebook have flooded our feeds with before-and-after transformations. While this exposure has increased public awareness of what modern dentistry can achieve, it has also fueled a dangerous appetite for immediate results. Too often, cases prioritize speed and dramatic aesthetics over time, patience, and precision. We frequently see full-mouth preparations performed simply to correct malaligned teeth and improve smile aesthetics— all while ignoring underlying health concerns such as airway, sleep, and breathing dysfunction, and without first exploring whether repositioning the teeth orthodontically might be…

40. Page 73

    OCTOBER 2026 • Insertion Appointment On the day of insertion, the patient was anesthetized, provisionals were removed, and the final restorations were tried in for approval. Following patient sign-off, isolation was established using the Absolute Isolation technique, with individual rubber dam placement across the anterior 6 teeth. The 2 teeth being bonded at any given time were further isolated with accessory B4 clamps (Coltène/ Whaledent) for additional soft tissue retraction (Figures 19 and 20). Each preparation was air-abraded with 27- μ m aluminum oxide at 40 PSI using a PrepStart unit (Zest Dental Solutions). Given that all preparations remained entirely…

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